What Happened This Year 2011

People Who Died in 2011

Nguyễn Cao Kỳ

Vietnamese General & Prime Minister
Born
September 8th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 81 years old

Born in September 1930, a military general and politician in Vietnam. Served as the 16th Prime Minister of the Republic of Vietnam from 1967 to 1971. Held significant influence during the Vietnam War as a prominent figure in the South Vietnamese government. After the fall of Saigon in 1975, lived in exile for several decades before returning to Vietnam in the early 1990s.

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William Lipscomb

Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
December 9th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 92 years old

Contributions included significant work in the fields of chemistry and molecular structure, especially in the area of boranes, a class of compounds containing boron and hydrogen. While at Harvard University, served as a professor and conducted extensive research that led to a deeper understanding of these compounds. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1976 for work on the structure and bonding of boron compounds. Authored numerous articles and participated in various academic collaborations throughout a distinguished career.

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Samuel Wanjiru

Kenyan Olympic marathon champion
Born
November 10th, 1986 38 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 25 years old

A marathon runner achieved notable success in distance running. Secured a gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, marking a significant achievement in Olympic history. Established multiple course records, including victories in prestigious marathons such as the London Marathon and the Chicago Marathon. Demonstrated exceptional speed and talent, breaking the then world record in the marathon distance.

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Oliver Napier

Northern Irish lawyer and politician
Born
July 11th, 1935 89 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 76 years old

A prominent lawyer and politician from Northern Ireland, influential in the political landscape during the late 20th century. Played a significant role in advocating for civil rights and engaged in various political efforts aimed at promoting peace and reconciliation during a turbulent period in the region. Represented the Alliance Party of Northern Ireland, contributing to discussions and negotiations surrounding the Northern Ireland conflict. Served in various capacities within the party and held an influential editorial role in local media.

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Homer Smith

American football player and coach
Born
October 9th, 1931 93 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 80 years old

A college football player and later a coach, achieved success in various coaching roles. Served as head coach at several universities, including the University of Arizona and the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). Contributed to the development of the passing game in American football, influencing future coaching strategies. Also known for coaching stints in the Canadian Football League.

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Cookie Gilchrist

American football player and Hall of Famer
Born
May 25th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 76 years old

Played as a running back in American football, primarily for the Buffalo Bills in the 1960s. Established a reputation as a powerful and versatile player, becoming an integral part of the team's success. Achieved recognition as a standout athlete while contributing significantly to the growth of the sport during his era. Transitioned to coaching and became involved in various football initiatives after retirement.

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Leslie Brooks

American actress from the 1940s
Born
July 13th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 89 years old

Active during the 1940s, Leslie Brooks gained recognition in the film industry for roles in notable movies. She starred in films such as 'The Devil on Wheels' and 'The Lady from Texas', showcasing her talent in different genres. Brooks also made appearances in various screen projects, contributing to the entertainment landscape of her time. Her work primarily revolved around the B-movie sector, where she demonstrated her acting capabilities. Brooks left an impression with her performances and became a familiar face in American cinema during her career.

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Sada Thompson

American actress in 'Family' TV series
Born
September 27th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 84 years old

An American actress gained recognition for prominent roles in television and theater. Achieved acclaim for the portrayal of Kate Lawrence in the television series 'Family', which aired in the late 1970s. Additionally, performed in several stage productions and earned several accolades in her theatrical career. Involved in various television dramas and made guest appearances on numerous shows, contributing to the landscape of American television in the 20th century.

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Mumtaz Hamid Rao

Pakistani journalist and writer
Born
June 16th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 70 years old

Born in 1941, a Pakistani journalist and writer with a career spanning several decades. Contributed to various newspapers and magazines, focusing on political and social issues. Served as the editor for prominent publications, shaping public discourse through critical analysis and investigative reporting. Engaged in media education, mentoring aspiring journalists. Actively participated in discussions regarding press freedom in Pakistan.

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